“We’re finally done!” Madison closed her laptop with a deep sigh of relief, surrounded by a pile of empty soda cans.

Sebastian suggested, “Let’s go. I’ll treat you both to dinner.”

Neither Miranda nor Madison declined the offer. They would have to work together for a long time, so there would be plenty of chances to return the favor in the future.

The crystal chandeliers in the Jovanian restaurant sparkled brilliantly, and soft piano music filled the air.

“Do you have a reservation?”

“I made one yesterday.” Sebastian took out his phone to confirm their booking.

Soon, the server led the three of them to their table.

Miranda had been here before, so it wasn’t unfamiliar to her. She knew this restaurant had the best ratings amongst similar restaurants, but it was also one of the most expensive.

After sitting down, Madison looked around excitedly as she touched the furnishings, muttering under her breath, “Wow, this is really different from where I’m from…”

As she spoke, she pulled out her phone and started snapping pictures of her surroundings. Seeing Miranda and Sebastian’s curious gazes, she smiled awkwardly. “I’m taking pictures to show my old man… Uh, my dad. He’s never seen a place like this…”

With that, Madison continued taking photos.

A hint of sympathy appeared in Sebastian’s gaze as his expression softened. It seemed that Madison’s family situation wasn’t good.

He didn’t want to be presumptuous and make a mistake, so after some thought, Sebastian asked cautiously, “What does your dad do?”

Madison seemed taken aback.

Her brief hesitation made Sebastian and Miranda think that it was something she found difficult to mention. He quickly added, “You don’t have to say anything if it’s too personal…”

Madison replied, “Well… My mom is a housewife and doesn’t work. My dad doesn’t really work, either. Usually, he goes around checking the apartment building and manages the people coming and going. He’s kind of like a security guard for the property.

“Since we live in a village by the sea, they go out fishing once in a while when they’re free. When we have the opportunity, I’ll take you both to my house to try freshly caught prawns. They are super fresh and tasty!”

Living in a rural village with unemployed parents who did odd jobs as a security guard… Occasionally going out to sea and catching fish to make some extra cash…

After listening to Madison’s story, Miranda and Sebastian had already formed a picture in their minds about her family background.

Despite such harsh family circumstances, it was impressive how her parents had raised her to be so cheerful, confident, and lively.

Miranda said, “Alright, I’ll definitely visit when I get the chance!”

Madison’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Great!”

Sebastian pursed his lips. “Just order whatever you want. There’s no need to hold back.”

“Really?” Madison’s eyes sparkled even brighter.

“Yes.”

“Can I really go for it?”

Sebastian nodded. “Go ahead.”

Madison turned to the server. “Please bring me three steaks to start with!”

The key was not three steaks, but that it was only the starter course!

Sebastian was speechless.

Soon, the appetizers arrived, followed by the main course. Miranda and Sebastian didn’t touch the desserts, leaving it all for Madison.

“Why aren’t you guys eating?” she asked.

Miranda replied, “I’m full, you can have it.”

She giggled and said, “Alright!”

Sebastian said to her, “If you’re still hungry, feel free to order more.”

Madison nodded at him with a smile. “By the way, what do your parents do?”

Miranda answered honestly, “My dad is a teacher, and my mom is a writer.”

“Wow, a writer! That sounds amazing!” Madison’s eyes were filled with admiration and curiosity. Seeing her reaction, Miranda and Sebastian felt a pang of pity for her.

“How about you, Seb?”

Moved by sympathy, Sebastian didn’t even mind the nickname she coined for him. “My parents are civil servants.”

Madison was even more amazed and exclaimed repeatedly. “That’s so cool… How nice…”